Rand'Aubrac - The Great Course

Le Grand Parcours: Celebrating the Aubrac Territory for Over 25 Years

The association Le Grand Parcours has been working for over 25 years to promote and enhance the Aubrac and Monts du Cantal territories through numerous sporting and cultural events in both summer and winter. Over the decades, the association has contributed to the development of hiking infrastructure: the Sentier des Espagnols, the Gorges du Bès climbing site, the Chaudes-Aigues mining trail, and in partnership with the Saint-Urcize ski club, the Aubrac Au Coeur trail.

Rand'Aubrac is the association's flagship event, a festive day of hiking celebrating the landscapes, heritage, and traditions of this territory located between the Bès and Truyère valleys and the Aubrac plateau.

Rand'Aubrac: From Chaudes-Aigues to Saint-Urcize

Every first Saturday of June, hikers gather in Chaudes-Aigues, a unique spa town in Cantal known for its naturally hottest waters in Europe (the Par spring reaches 82°C). From there, several hiking routes are offered, crossing the varied and magnificent landscapes of the Cantal Aubrac.

The Routes

Rand'Aubrac notably offers:

• 15 km route (elevation gain +600 m): coach transfer from Chaudes-Aigues to Anterrieux, then hike from Anterrieux to Maurines through the Aubrac landscapes.
• 22 km route (elevation gain +870 m): direct hike from Chaudes-Aigues to Maurines, covering valleys and plateaus between the Monts du Cantal and Aubrac.

Other routes, ranging from 12 to 33 km, are also offered depending on the edition, allowing everyone to find an itinerary suited to their level. The trails cross remarkable landscapes: flowery meadows, beech forests, mountain streams, abandoned shepherd huts (burons), and panoramic views of the Aubrac plateau.

Entertainment and Camaraderie

Rand'Aubrac stands out for its festive and musical atmosphere. Throughout the routes, refreshment stops punctuate the walk, and various musical performances accompany the hikers on the trails. Upon arrival, a large outdoor meal featuring aligot and sausage, essential Aubrac specialties, brings all participants together in a friendly and warm atmosphere.

Chaudes-Aigues, the Ideal Starting Point

Chaudes-Aigues, located at an altitude of 760 m, is a small spa town with authentic charm, known worldwide for its natural hot springs. The commune is an ideal starting point for exploring the Cantal Aubrac, with its mid-mountain landscapes, gastronomy (aligot, truffade, Aubrac beef), and preserved rural heritage. Rand'Aubrac contributes to the tourist appeal of this region and the enhancement of its natural and cultural assets.